Home lost in Methow Valley fires

Update, 6:45 a.m.: Highway 153 is now open to one lane of traffic between Carlton and Gold Creek.

CARLTON — One home has burned down and dozens more are threatened by four fires burning in the Methow Valley.

Fire spokesman Jacob McCann said he did not know if any homes were lost today, although several homes are within the fire’s footprint.

But Okanogan County Sheriff Frank Rogers said his deputies confirmed that a Carlton-area home did burn down this afternoon, and everyone inside got out safely.

McCann said that by this afternoon, about 4,500 acres had burned. He didn’t have additional information this evening, but said, “I’m expecting that number to shoot up because we had such active fire this afternoon.

The Stokes Road Fire, where about 7 homes were under immediate evacuation recommendations, came back down Texas Creek and crossed Highway 153 this afternoon.

The highway is now closed from Carlton to Gold Creek.

Residents in other areas, including Gold Creek, Libby Creek and some near Pearrygin, were also warned to be ready to leave at a moment’s notice, Rogers said.

Reach K.C. Mehaffey at 509-997-2512 or (javascript required to see email). Read her blog An Apple a Day or follow her on Twitter at @KCMehaffeyWW.